Epic Road Trip Routes for RVers
Your Ultimate Guide to Iconic Scenic Drives Across America
There’s no better way to explore the beauty of America than from the driver’s seat of your RV. Whether you’re towing a lightweight travel trailer or living large in a fifth wheel, the open road calls — and we’ve got your bucket list of unforgettable road trip routes right here. These legendary drives are tailor-made for RVers looking for scenic views, hidden gems, and once-in-a-lifetime stops.
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1. Pacific Coast Highway – California (Highway 1)
Route: San Diego to San Francisco (or all the way to Crescent City)
Mileage: ~650 miles
Highlights:
- Big Sur: Winding cliffs and jaw-dropping ocean views.
- Hearst Castle: A historic mansion tour worth the detour.
- Santa Barbara: Coastal charm and excellent campgrounds.
- Monterey & Carmel: Aquarium, seaside shopping, and scenic 17-Mile Drive.
🛻 RV Tip: Some sections are narrow — best suited for smaller trailers or Class B/C RVs. Check road conditions ahead of time.
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2. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
Route: Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Mileage: 469 miles
Highlights:
- Skyline Drive: Rolling mountains and spectacular fall foliage.
- Linville Falls: A moderate hike to a breathtaking waterfall.
- Mabry Mill: The most photographed spot on the parkway!
- Asheville, NC: Art scene, breweries, and access to the Smokies.
🛻 RV Tip: No commercial traffic allowed, and RVs must follow size/length restrictions — plan your overnight stays at designated campgrounds.
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3. Route 66 – Chicago to Santa Monica
Route: Illinois to California
Mileage: ~2,400 miles
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (TX): Graffiti-covered cars buried in the desert.
- Petrified Forest (AZ): Ancient fossils and colorful rock formations.
- Oatman, AZ: Wild burros roam this quirky ghost town.
- Santa Monica Pier: The official western end of Route 66.
🛻 RV Tip: Many original segments are RV-friendly, but use a modern GPS to avoid detours or outdated roadways.
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4. The Great Northern – U.S. Route 2
Route: Washington State to Maine
Mileage: ~2,500 miles
Highlights:
- Glacier National Park (MT): Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see.
- Theodore Roosevelt NP (ND): Wildlife and otherworldly landscapes.
- Great Lakes views (MI): Stunning water vistas and lighthouses.
- Acadia National Park (ME): Rugged coastlines and peaceful forests.
🛻 RV Tip: Ideal for those seeking a long-haul trip full of diverse terrain — plan for varying climates and road conditions.
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5. Utah’s Mighty Five Route
Route: Zion → Bryce Canyon → Capitol Reef → Arches → Canyonlands
Mileage: ~900 miles round-trip
Highlights:
- Zion National Park: Dramatic red cliffs and canyon hikes.
- Bryce Canyon: Hoodoos that glow at sunrise.
- Arches NP: Over 2,000 natural stone arches.
- Canyonlands NP: Epic vistas with minimal crowds.
🛻 RV Tip: Most parks offer RV-friendly campgrounds, but book early — this route is wildly popular!
🧭 Final Thoughts:
No matter which direction you’re headed, these epic routes offer unforgettable scenery, small-town charm, and RV-friendly adventures. Always plan your fuel stops, research campground options in advance, and don’t forget to take your time — after all, the journey is the destination.
Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re shopping for your first travel trailer or upgrading to a luxury fifth wheel, stop by Beaumont RV or Beaumont RV No. 2 in Moreno Valley and let’s get you road trip ready!